At the colourful wholesale market stand of SE-SA O&G in the Hamburg Grossmarkthalle, there is something for every gourmet. In today's assortment seasonal leek onions, sweet potatoes, hot peppers and small eggplants are marketed. Even the fresh lemons from Italy are real eye-catchers. "About half a year ago, we really got started with these; we only have lemons from the Amalfi region in our range, instead of conventional varieties. Sales in the Hamburg area are relatively good and constant, and prices remain relatively stable."
Supply shortages
In order to cover the continuous demand for the exclusive lemons, however, the company must demonstrate a suitable delivery capacity. With regard to lemons, the continuous flow of goods is there, according to Mr Bayburt. "The availability is relatively good almost all year round; there is only a small supply gap of one to two weeks from time to time. But as a pure import company, it is our job to keep an eye on the market so we can always keep up with specific bottlenecks, always able to fill in the gaps.”
Should the lemons be absent at some point during the peak season, then there is much more to choose from for regular customers of the wholesaler. Sometimes there are Egyptian citrus fruits, the supply of which is currently coming to an end. Bayburt: "Even red onions from Egypt are currently a hit with us, as they are currently in peak season and we have pre-cut herbs from Israel, Kenya, Tanzania and Ethiopia all year round." Even when regional products are available customers always seem to appreciate the aromas and the shelf-life of the high-quality herbs, says the owner, who is clearly enjoying his work. "It always pleases me to be able to set trends myself, that are then picked up in the market."
Seasonal exotics
SE-SA Obst und Gemüse Großhandlung has been based in Hamburg's Grossmarkthalle for four years and has established itself as importer of a wide variety of fruit and vegetable specialties. The clientele consists primarily of regional gastronomy suppliers, specialist shops, weekly marketers and wholesalers themselves. In addition to the varieties mentioned, the broad product range also includes seasonal exotics such as guava, melons and numerous hot pepper varieties. Furthermore, the management relies heavily on marketing, including through Facebook and Instagram.
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SE-SA Obst & Gemüse Großhandel